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Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement upvc windows repair.
Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double glazed window repairs near me-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.
When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.